A young Cuban who was left paralyzed in a serious car accident in Mexico while trying to reach the United States has just returned to his hometown in Las Tunas. "Returning home with shattered dreams. Very sad what Alexey Ponce Duarte, 33, has experienced," said journalist Mario J. Pentón on Twitter, sharing a video of the young man's first moments with his family.
"Although he couldn't make it to the U.S., at least he's with his loved ones today and hopes to recover," the reporter noted.
The video shows Alexey's emotional reunion with his cancer-stricken mother, who hugged him for a long time, kissing him and tearfully promising to take care of him.
In May, this migrant recounted his dramatic story to Martí Noticias. He explained that he left with his wife and stepdaughter last October for Nicaragua, after selling their home and all their belongings to finance the trip. "The journey is tough. Immigration sent us back to Guatemala, and there the drug cartels were waiting for us. We managed to leave because we still had some money left," he detailed.
He doesn't remember much about the accident in Mexico because he lost consciousness immediately. "I fractured my spine. My wife is still undergoing rehabilitation therapy because she was also badly injured. In recent days, I've noticed bedsores developing," he said.
Despite his difficult situation, he still held hope back then of reaching the United States and kept requesting a CBP One appointment daily to seek asylum at the border, which unfortunately never happened.
He and his partner lived off charity and some help from relatives in Miami, but they were reluctant to return to Cuba. "Here, at least, you go to the pharmacy, and you have medicine," he noted at the time.
The young man had faith that entering the United States would allow him to be seen by specialists. "I believe that with good doctors, I can walk again," he affirmed then.
Finally, Alexey has returned to Cuba to be with his mother and the rest of his family.
Key Questions About Alexey Ponce Duarte's Journey and Condition
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding Alexey Ponce Duarte's journey, his current condition, and the circumstances surrounding his return to Cuba.
What caused Alexey Ponce Duarte's paralysis?
Alexey Ponce Duarte became paralyzed due to a severe car accident in Mexico while attempting to reach the United States.
Why did Alexey and his family decide to leave Cuba?
Alexey and his family decided to leave Cuba in search of better opportunities and to escape the difficult living conditions, selling their home and belongings to finance their journey.
How is Alexey's health now?
Alexey is currently dealing with the effects of his spinal injury, including developing bedsores. His wife is also undergoing rehabilitation therapy for her injuries.